Ji Sung Returns as a Judge in MBC's 'Judge Lee Han-young', Premiering January 2, 2026
Actor Ji Sung is set to make his MBC drama comeback after approximately 10 years, following his win at the 2015 MBC Drama Awards. He will star as Judge Lee Han-young in the new MBC Friday-Saturday drama 'Judge Lee Han-young,' scheduled to premiere on January 2, 2026. The series follows Lee Han-young, a corrupt judge who lived as a slave to a mega law firm and unexpectedly returns 10 years to the past, using his second chance to punish evil and achieve justice.
Ji Sung will portray Lee Han-young, a former subordinate judge at the Haenal Law Firm who blindly followed power. After his mother's death, he becomes entangled in a case and is instantly branded a criminal. Following an unjust demise, he returns to his past as a solo judge ten years prior. Reborn, he aims to shed his tainted past as a 'corrupt judge' and pursue justice.
The recently released stills showcase Ji Sung's versatile acting range. His cold gaze in judicial robes transforms him into the icy 'Lee Han-young,' captivating viewers. Conversely, his portrayal in a prisoner's uniform, protesting his innocence, hints at his explosive acting prowess. Known as a master of method acting, Ji Sung is expected to delicately portray Lee Han-young's emotional journey and character transformation as he navigates the events and repercussions of his return.
Adding to the drama's appeal, Ji Sung will engage in a thrilling dynamic with co-stars Park Hee-soon (as Kang Shin-jin) and Won Jin-ah (as Kim Jin-ah), fluctuating between ally and adversary. The production team commented, "Actor Ji Sung is passionately filming, making the most of his return to MBC after 10 years." They added, "Please look forward to seeing how Lee Han-young, who has been given a chance to become a new person, will confront the power that once oppressed him." The drama is based on a popular web novel and webtoon of the same name, boasting over 100 million views combined.
Netizens are reacting enthusiastically to Ji Sung's return to MBC after a decade. Comments such as "I always trust Ji Sung's acting!", "Looking forward to seeing which life-like character he'll portray this time," and "I'll definitely tune in for the premiere since it's Ji Sung and a regression story" are flooding in, amplifying anticipation for the drama.